When he's whole, he's wondrous. He is still only 30, but he has been limited to 104 games over the last three years.

His last fully healthy season was in 2008, when he hit 33 home runs, drove in 90 runs and stole 38 bases. In 2006 and again in 2007, he played in all 162 games.

He was a Gold Glove centerfielder, and if the Red Sox were sure he could resemble his old self, trading Jacoby Ellsbury – a Sizemore clone in many ways – would be a lot easier to accept.

If the Indians ask Sizemore back, it would likely be on a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. Considering that several teams have reportedly inquired about him, he can probably do better.

Sizemore was a three-time All-Star from 2006-2008. He finished in the top 12 of the AL MVP voting each year before injuries derailed him.

If the Red Sox can't add front-line outfielders, they will likely hesitate to trade Ellsbury, further depleting an area that needs help.

They have also been considering former Boston outfielder Jason Bay, who was let go by the Mets after his three-year stint in New York was a bust.

Bay has a favorable attitude toward Boston, but teams on the West Coast might also be in the mix.

There is also Cody Ross, now a free agent but not off the Red Sox radar. A report from Fox Sports said the Baltimore Orioles, a division rival now dealing from strength, are on Ross' trail, and the Atlanta Braves have also shown interest.

Baltimore's interest in Ross will depend on whether they succeed in landing Josh Hamilton, their first target and the superstar of this free-agent class.

Internally, the Red Sox continue to fill out their staff. Boston media reports they are considering hiring two hitting coaches, a primary coach and an assistant.

Departed hitting coach Dave Magadan, who went to Texas, did the job alone. Many teams are moving toward a two-man system, where philosophies are similar but personalities may differ.